Third Ward Newsletter
2016 Year in Review
January
2017
In This Issue
Useful Links          

Check Building Code Violations

 

Employment

 

City Council Legislative Review (view the status of any piece of legislation introduced to the City Council)

 

After School Matters

 

Utility Assistance

 

Foreclosure Assistance

 

Scholarships

 

Join Our Mailing List

 

Happy New Year! 2016 was a productive year for the 3rd Ward and this newsletter will feature an in-depth overview of our 2016 accomplishments. There are lots of wonderful events and achievements highlighted within and I look forward to the opportunity to build on these successes in 2017. 

 

In 2017, to grow as a community, I am asking residents to do their part to strengthen the neighborhood. This includes:

  • Working more closely with the police
  • Attending community and town hall meetings
  • Keeping your area clean of litter, dog droppings, etc.
  • Supporting local businesses
  • Volunteering with organizations that support youth in the community
  • Sharing this newsletter with your neighbors
As we move into 2017, let's resolve to make our ward - and our City - the best it can be!

 

Sincerely,

Pat Dowell
Alderman, 3rd Ward
2016 Year in Review                                         
Community Engagement
 
Ward Night and Ward Outreach Events
Every Thursday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm and on the 3rd Saturday of every month from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm Alderman Dowell opens up her office for Ward Night.  During these hours residents can meet directly with the Alderman and her staff, no appointment necessary, on any topic of their choosing.  In addition to Ward Night, last year Alderman Dowell met with over a hundred block clubs, tenant groups, senior buildings and community organizations from all parts of the ward.  At these meetings the Alderman spoke with constituents about issues affecting their lives and took questions and comments on a variety of important ward topics.

Third Ward Town Hall Meetings
 
Alderman Dowell Hosts South Loop Town Hall Meeting
On February 1st, Alderman Dowell hosted a Town Hall meeting at South Loop Elementary School (1212 S. Plymouth Ct.). At the meeting, residents heard from new 1st District Commander Robert Klich, area developers, the Chicago Department of Transportation and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. Alderman Dowell also delivered an update about what is happening in the 3rd Ward and took questions from the audience. At the meeting attendees learned about the City's Motor Row streetscape project, updates to Women's and Webster parks, changes to the Clark House operating schedule, the 1326 S. Michigan development project and public safety priorities for the neighborhood. 

Thank you to South Loop Elementary School Principal Tara Shelton for hosting the event, the many great presenters for sharing their projects with the community and all the residents who took time out of their busy schedule to attend the Town Hall meeting.

Alderman Dowell Hosts Town Hall at Arts Incubator
On April 6th Alderman Dowell welcomed the University of Chicago, Mercy Housing, the Independent Police  Review Authority, the Department of Planning and Development and the Chicago Park District to a 3rd Ward Town Hall meeting at the Washington Park Arts Incubator (301 E. Garfield Blvd.). Thank you to all who presented and attended in this event.  

At the Town Hall meeting, residents were able to discuss important topics like public safety with the head of the Independent Police Review Authority as well as hear about potential new developments in the 3rd Ward including: the remodeled Rosenwald Courts Apartments, the proposed Washington Park Arts Block and a mid-rise multi-unit apartment building with first floor retail planned for the corner of 31st St. and Michigan Avenue. Last, representatives from the City were on hand to discuss a new market rate housing project planned for Bronzeville and to introduce numerous park expansion and redevelopment projects planned across the 3rd Ward.

Daystar School Hosts 3rd Ward Town Hall Meeting 
On April 7th Alderman Dowell hosted a Town Hall meeting at Daystar School (1550 S. State St.).  Thank you to the Daystar School staff, the owners of Overflow Coffee and all the residents who attended the Town Hall for making this meeting a success. 

The Town Hall meeting featured an informative question and answer session with 1st District Police Commander Robert Klich who addressed some of the public safety concerns of the community. After Commander Klich, the residents heard from Friends of the Parks in regards to the ongoing Lucas Museum lawsuit, then a series of developers presented proposed projects for 1411 S. Michigan Avenue and 14th St. & Wabash Avenue. The evening concluded with a short introduction to a new business in the ward, Baderbrau Brewing (2515 S. Wabash Ave). 

Alderman Dowell Welcomes Police Superintendent Johnson to 3rd Ward Public Safety  Town Hall Meeting 
On May 17th, Alderman Dowell hosted newly-appointed Chicago Police Department Superintendent Eddie Johnson at the 3rd Ward Public Safety Town Hall meeting. Superintendent Johnson spoke about methods for curbing violence as the City enters the summer season. In addition, the Superintendent discussed at length ways to restore trust in the police department especially in south and west side communities.

Guests at the Town Hall meeting also heard from Dwayne Bryant, an African-American author, who discussed his first-hand positive experiences with the police and how his experiences can inform residents as they interact with public safety officers. Last, Alderman Dowell, Superintendent Johnson and Mr. Bryant took questions from the audience, moderated by community resident Ruby Haughton-Pitts. Thank you to Superintendent Johnson, Dwayne Bryant, Ruby Haughton-Pitts and all of the guests who attended the Public Safety Town Hall meeting. 

If you are interested in learning more about potential changes to the Chicago Police Department, the Police Accountability Task Force has released a series of recommendations as part of a broad reform report. The full report can be found here

Sherwood School of Music Hosts South Loop Town Hall
On Thursday, July 28th Alderman Dowell hosted a Town Hall meeting at the Sherwood School of Music (1312 S. Michigan Avenue). Thank you to all of the residents who came that evening and to the presenters: Felicia Davis, Executive Director of the Public Buildings Commission; Tara Shelton, Principal of South Loop Elementary School; Captain Laurel Bresnahan, 1st Police District; John Nichols and Ken Carlson for the McCormick Place Event Center and Hotel; Terry Mister presenting on 1948 S. Prairie; and Brian Freedman for the South Loop Traffic Task Force.

The meeting covered a wide variety of important topics like the new South Loop Elementary School building, public safety initiatives in the 1st District, updates on the new McCormick Place development and more. Alderman Dowell and the presenters also took questions - and helpful suggestions - from the audience. 

Alderman Dowell Hosts Town Hall at Mt. Pisgah 
On August 8th, Alderman Dowell hosted a Town Hall meeting at Mt. Pisgah M.B. Church 
to inform residents about potential projects in their neighborhood and provide constituents an opportunity to share their thoughts and concerns about what is happening in their community. The Town Hall meeting featured presentations from: CDOT about the 43rd Street Complete Streets Project, the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) on supports for neighborhood businesses, the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) for the 3rd Ward Parade of Homes, Greater Southwest Development Corporation on the redevelopment of the Overton School building, and an update on the Rosenwald Courts Apartment project. Thank you to everyone who presented and attended this informative event.   

Parade of Homes Meeting
On Monday, October 24th Alderman Dowell hosted a Town Hall meeting to present the developers for the 3rd Ward Parade of Homes project. This project will create a series of market-rate single-family homes in an area between Pershing Road and 46th Street on Indiana, Calumet and Prairie Avenues.

The five developers selected to participate in the Parade of Homes are: Lennox Jackson with Urban Equities, Jerome Wade with Jerome Wade Enterprises, Benjamin Van Horne of Greenline Homes, Eric & Sheila Dantzler with R&D Builders, and Craig Yarbrough of Click Development. Thank you to the developers and to Brian O'Donnell with the Department of Planning and Development for participating in this exciting opportunity. 

Harold Ickes Meeting
On November 10th, Alderman Dowell hosted a Town Hall meeting at National Teachers Academy.  The Town Hall meeting featured an in-depth presentation about the proposed redevelopment of the old Harold Ickes site at Cermak Rd. and State St. The new development will contain hundreds of new residential units, ample commercial space and parking for a mix of CHA, affordable and market-rate residents. 

Additionally, the Office of Budget and Management discussed the Property Tax Rebate program, representatives from the Department of Public Health spoke about the Healthy Chicago 2.0 plan, the Office of Emergency Management and Communications educated residents about how to better use the 911 and 311 systems, and Partners in Community Building spoke about home assistance programs. 
     
Alderman Dowell Addresses Residents at Housing Fair
In order to assist residents with their housing related questions and issues, and to improve homeownership in the ward, Alderman Dowell hosted a 3rd Ward Housing Fair on April 16th at Phillips High School. Participants at the housing fair were able to hear from mortgage, real estate and legal experts on how to purchase a home, how to stay in  your  home, and what protections you have as a tenant. 

After the presentation portion of the event, guests were invited to speak directly with housing experts one-on-one to get their housing issues resolved. Thank you to all the residents who attended the event and thank you to the following housing experts who were present at the event: Neighborhood Housing Services, Partners In Community Building, The Property Law Group, Austin Jarret Law Group, Ronald Nolen - Attorney at Law, Paul Ochmanek - Attorney at Law, Chicago Homes Realty Group, Ware Realty, Excellence Home Inspectors, Fifth Third Bank, The Federal Savings Bank, Associated Bank, and Mercy Housing Association. 

Community Residents, Alderman Dowell and 2nd District Police
 Hold Roll Call and March on 35th Street
In response to the heinous murder of Bronzeville resident and City of Chicago employee Yvonne Nelson, members of the Bronzeville community, Alderman Dowell and the 2nd District Police held an outdoor roll call and march outside of the Starbucks Coffee on 35th and State Street where the incident occurred. After the roll call (pictured below), members of the community stood up and spoke against the continued violence in the neighborhood and the need for local residents to step up and work with the police to help stop the violence. The event ended with a march around the block to let area residents know they are not alone in their fight against neighborhood violence.

3rd Ward Job Fair
On July 22nd, Alderman Dowell hosted a 3rd Ward Job Fair. The job fair was presented in collaboration with Employment and Employer Services and the staff of the Mid-South Workforce Development Center. The event was held at the Charles Hayes Family Investment Center located at 4859 S. Wabash Ave.

The 3rd Ward Job Fair hosted 35+ employers from a variety of industries and career tracks. Job seekers of all ages and experience levels came to apply for jobs on-site, network with hiring managers and gather information about employment opportunities. Over 300 job seekers attended the fair. In preparation for the event, Alderman Dowell hosted 2 job readiness trainings  for interested job seekers. These training sessions helped prospective employees get ready for employers by providing tips on resume development and work ready behavior. 

Bud Billiken Day Parade and Picnic
Alderman Dowell once again helped plan and lead the annual Bud Billiken Day Parade and Picnic, which kicked off on August 13th. 2016 marked the 87th anniversary of this wonderful event which celebrated its first year under the leadership of Dr. Marcus Alexander.
 
10th Annual 3rd Ward Back-to-School Extravaganza
Despite the gloomy conditions, Alderman Dowell hosted her annual Back-to-School Extravaganza on Saturday, August 20th in Fuller Park. Hundreds of children and their families braved the early rain to get free backpacks and school supplies for the upcoming school year, as well as enjoy free hot dogs, White Castle hamburgers, play games, and more. In addition to the fun and games, the fair featured health care providers, utility assistance from ComEd, music programs, and other important resources. Alderman Dowell also handed out book bags at numerous neighborhood events, local schools, and area housing developments, totaling 3,000 book bags distributed to the community.

Thank you to all of the vendors who made this event possible and to everyone who contributed supplies and other items to support our neighborhood students. 

10th Annual 3rd Ward Senior Update
Hundreds of local seniors enjoyed a day of fun, food, games and information at Alderman Dowell's 10th Annual 3rd Ward Senor Update on Saturday, September 17th. Thank you to all the seniors who made the day so enjoyable, and to all the vendors and service providers that came to help with the event and offer their services to our ward's senior residents. In particular, thank you to all the women of Delta Sigma Theta, the Chicago Police and the Chicago Fire Department who donated their time to make sure the event ran smoothly. 

Seniors were able to access health services provided by Oak Street Health and Provident Hospital, as well as housing services by Partners in Community Building. The fantastic DJ Kenny Bee was on hand to serenade the guests in between speeches from local community groups and other elected officials.  

Alderman Dowell Gives Away Hundreds of Turkeys for Thanksgiving
As she does every year, Alderman Dowell gave away hundreds of turkeys to 3rd Ward residents for Thanksgiving. This could not have been done without the generous support of local partners. Thank you to everyone who donated turkeys so that neighborhood fam ilies could have a happy holiday season.  Alderman Dowell brought turkeys to her senior buildings, affordable housing complexes, CHA facilities and nursing homes, as well as passed out turkeys and turkey vouchers from her 3rd Ward Public Service Office. 

9th District Peace March
Alderman Pat Dowell was joined by the Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson, Mayor Rahm Emanuel and other civic and community leaders for a peace march in the 9th District. The event was highlighted by a renewed call for better public safety efforts in neighborhoods plagued by violence. The march engaged dozens of local residents who are not only affected by ongoing violence, but in partnership with their local police district, can play a crucial role in helping keep our neighborhoods safe. 

2nd District Hosts Outdoor Roll Call
Former Commander Terence Williams and the officers of the 2nd Police District hosted an outdoor roll call on the corner of 43rd and King Drive on June 28th.  Thank you to Commander Williams, the officers, and all of the residents who attended this important event. 

An outdoor roll call is a strong signal to the community that the police are out in force protecting residents. It's also an opportunity for neighborhood residents to engage with their local police officers to develop a positive relationship and learn about what the police are doing to protect the community. 

2nd District Outdoor Roll Call at Garfield Blvd. and Wentworth Ave.
Alderman Dowell and members of the 2nd District Police Department staged an outdoor roll call in the parking lot on the corner of Garfield Blvd. and Wentworth Ave. to call attention to the increase in violence outside of the businesses at the intersection. 

Alderman Dowell has been working with the business owners to provide ad ditional security for the area and to do a better job of alerting police to potential criminal activity. Alderman Dowell sat down personally with the owners of the mall and the outlots to ensure they hired adequate security. While the mall already did provide limited on-site security, b ecause of these discussions, starting June 1, 2016, Checkers began working with the neighboring Currency Exchange to employ additional security for the area.

Alderman Dowell Participates in Faith and Action Day
Faith and Action Day is a citywide initiative to promote cooperation between the community, faith leaders and the Chicago Police Department. This event is held annually towards the end of the school year as the City enters what is typically the more violent summer season. 

Police Districts from across the 3rd Ward hosted their own Faith and Action Day events featuring food, music, guest speakers and giveaways. These events serve as an opportunity for residents to develop a relationship with members of their local police district. 

3rd Ward Pastors and Ministers Breakfast
On February 24th, about 30 pastors from churches across the 3rd Ward attended Alderman Dowell's Pastors and Ministers Breakfast Meeting. Former 2nd Police District Commander Terence Williams and 9th Police District Commander Daniel Godsel were on hand to discuss public safety issues in the community. Also presenting at the event were: Lisa Davis, Supervising Manager for the Youth Division, Department of Family and Support Services; Pastor Chris Harris, Chairman, Bronzeville Community Action Council; Delizza Russell, Director of Adult Day Care Programs, Chicago Commons; and Michael Henry, External Affairs Manager, ComEd. Alderman Dowell discussed various services offered through her office, and those offered by the many churches in  the ward.

A special thank you also to Pastor Eric Thomas of Greater Harvest MB Church for making their building available to host this important Pastors and Ministers Breakfast Meeting.   
 
Alderman Dowell Attends CPS Network 9 High School Fair
The CPS Network 9 High School Fair was held November 19th at IIT's Hermann Hall to
 expose our middle school students to high school options in our community. What a tremendous turnout! Students and parents met the principals of area high schools, learned about the academic and extracurricular programs offered by each school and the enrollment process. Kudos to Network 9 Chief Felicia Sanders and her team including Myetie Hamilton and Michael McGehee for pulling off a successful fair, the first of its kind in Network 9. Alderman Dowell was proud to have supported this effort which should help our youth achieve their goals in the selection of a high school.

House Share Meeting Hosted by Alderman Dowell
On June 22, 2016, the City of Chicago adopted an ordinance that changed the law regarding the regulation of short-term rental activity, including shared housing and vacation rentals, in the city. The ordinance went into effect December 17, 2016.
 
As part of the ordinance, the City of Chicago's Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection will maintain a Prohibited Buildings List which will allow  your building to be placed on a list prohibiting short-term residential rental activity in  your building if it has 5 or more dwelling units, or the building is otherwise governed by a homeowners' association, condo association, or building cooperative. The provision of the ordinance allowing buildings to be added to the Prohibited Buildings List went into effect on July 15, 2016. This list allows the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection to ensure those dwelling units on the list will not be rented through home-sharing platforms (i.e. Airbnb, HomeAway, FlipKey, VRBO, among others).
 
On November 16th, Alderman Dowell's office in conjunction with the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection, hosted a meeting to learn about the House Share Ordinance and how to take the necessary steps to be included on the Prohibited Buildings List.  The meeting also offered an opportunity to get questions answered, obtain an Affidavit Form and learn how to handle complaints.

Bronzeville CAC/Ald. Dowell Host Principals' Breakfast Meeting
The   Bronzeville Community Action Council hosted its annual breakfast for local Bronzeville principals to discuss some of the opportunities and challenges facing our neighborhood schools in the coming year.  This was a great event for principals to network with other educators in order to coordinate services for our neighborhood's students as well as discuss best practices for educating area children.
 
The Bronzeville CAC is a group of educators, residents, parents, teachers, businesses and community leaders dedicated to improving education for neighborhood students at all of our schools.  The CAC meets on the 2nd Monday of every month from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Chicago Urban League.
 
Infrastructure Improvements

2016 Street Resurfacing
Street
From
To
Federal St.
37th St.
Pershing Rd
St. Lawrence
45th St.
46th St.
Wells St.
45th Pl.
46th St.
45th St.
Princeton Ave. Stewart Ave.
44th St. King Dr. St. Lawrence
43rd Pl. Shields Ave. Princeton Ave.
Plymouth Ct. at 14th St.
32nd St.  Michigan Ave. Indiana Ave.
41st St.  King Dr. Vincennes Ave.
26th St. Dan Ryan Michigan Ave.
43rd St. State St. St. Lawrence
51st St. King Dr. St. Lawrence
Pershing Rd. State St. Vincennes Ave.
King Dr. 51st St. Garfield Blvd.
Root St. Stewart Ave. Wentworth Ave.
Chicago Receives $25 Million to Revitalize Garfield Blvd. 
Green Line Station
The historic  Garfield  Boulevard  Gr een  Line station will be completely remodeled thanks to a $25 million U.S. Department of Transportation  Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) 
Grant awarded to the CTA. This grant will support infrastructure improvements to the existing station and track structure as well as restore the former "Alley L" station across the street from the station. This project, in conjunction with the investments being made by the University of Chicago, the private sector and its partners for the Arts Block in Washington Park promises to revitalize the neighborhood by serving as an anchor for local development.

23rd Street Streetscape
23rd St. between State St. and Indiana Ave. was improved as the City renovated the street with infrastructure upgrades and streetscape elements. These improvements are part of a comprehensive streetscaping project designed by the City of Chicago Department of Transportation in close cooperation with community representatives and Alderman Dowell. 

The project consists of numerous improvements including: roadway resurfacing, burial of overhead ComEd lines, new sidewalks, curb and gutter replacement, upgraded street lighting with LED white lights, ADA ramps and crosswalks, permeable pavers and parkway trees.The project was scheduled for completion in Winter 2016.
   
47th Street Streetscape 
Work to beautify the public way on 47th Street around the Green Line "L" station is ongoing. In addition to new trees being planted, the sidewalk have been upgraded with decorative pavers, the intersections received new brick walkways and the CTA station is getting an upgrade. These improvements will enhance this busy commercial corridor, helping to  attract  business and make the street a more  pleasant  place on which to travel. 

2016 Alley Resurfacing
Street
From
To
King Drive
38th
39th
King Drive
50th
51st St.
Swann St. Shields
Railroad
Right Turning Vehicles Yield to Bikes Sign to Installed at Roosevelt and Michigan Intersection
In order to warn vehicles of bike and pedestrian traffic, the Chicago Department of Transportation has installed new signage reading "Right Turning Vehicles Yield to Bikes" on the
Wabash Ave. 13th  14th
Michigan Ave. 37th 38th
Cermak Rd. Wabash Ave. Michigan Ave.
northeast corner of Roosevelt Road and  Michigan Avenue. This is necessary due to the  placement of the Roosevelt Road bike lanes on the sidewalk instead of on the street where they are traditionally found. This can cause an issue as vehicles may not realize that there are bikes crossing the intersection. The new signage will alert vehicles to this conflict and hopefully reduce the risk of accidents. 
 
2016 New Alleys
2222 S. Michigan Ave.
18th St. to Cullerton St. from Prairie Ave. to Calumet Ave.
2016 Sidewalk Repairs
16th St. from Clark St. to Dearborn St.
4839-41 S. Prairie Ave.
Archer Ave. from State St. to Dearborn St.
40th Pl. from Dearborn St. to Federal St.

 




2016 New Residential Lighting
Street
From
To
Prairie Ave. (Uplighting)
49th St.
51st St.






51st St. Light Pole Painting
All of the street light poles on 51st St. from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Dr. to State Street were repainted per the request of Alderman Dowell. Painting the light poles helps to beautify this busy commercial corridor and make the block safer for residents and businesses. 

2016 New Water Mains
Street
From
To
51st St. 
Prairie Ave. King Dr.
51st St. Shields Ave. Wells St.
King Dr. 53rd St. Garfield Blvd.
48th Pl. Shields Ave. Well St.
Prairie Ave. Garfield Blvd. 56th St.
Indiana Ave. Garfield Blvd. 59th St.
55th Pl. Indiana Ave. King Dr.
Shields Ave. 47th St. 48th Pl.
Clark St. 16th St. Cullerton St.
Princeton Ave. 47th St. 51st St.
Pershing Rd. Giles Ave. Vincennes Ave.
47th St. Prairie Ave. St. Lawrence

2016 New Sewer Mains
Street
From
To
43rd St. Vernon Ave. Vernon Ave.

2016 Sewer Main Repairs
4800 S. Calumet Ave. 5400 S. Federal Ave. 448 E. 49th St. 4837 S. Prairie Ave. 4120 S. Indiana Ave.
448 E. 49th St. 5320 S. Federal St. 9 E. Cullerton St. 4501 S. Princeton Ave. 532 E. 44th Pl.
515 E. 46th Pl. 338 E. 44th St. 4122 S. Vincennes Ave. 419 E. 50th Pl. 4207 S.  Prairie Ave.
440 E. 45th Pl. 310 E. 37th St. 5035 S. Vincennes Ave. 48 W. Root St. 2523 S. Wabash

2016 Catch Basin Cleanings
2540 S. Wabash Ave. 2710 S. State St. 205 E. 50th St. 5104 S. Federal St. 4441 S. Prairie Ave.
4438 S. Prairie Ave. 4638 S. Prairie Ave. 4638 S. Vincennes Ave. 2526 S. Federal St. 1808 S. State St.
217 W. Root St. 4423 S. Indiana Ave. 300 W. 57 St. 3 E. 35th St. 5 W. 33rd St.
35 W. 33rd St. 101 W. 33rd St. 425 E. 46th St. 4920 S. King Dr. 3434 S. Michigan Ave.
5048 S. State St. 132 E. 48th St. 131 E. 48th St. 2707 S. State St. 4131 S. State St.
100 E. 35th St. 4446 S. Princeton Ave. 60 E. Pershing Rd. 3401 S. State St. 50 E. Pershing Rd.
330 W. 42nd St. 3650 S. Wentworth Ave. 3832 S. Wentworth Ave. 3602 S. Wentworth Ave. 3620 S. Wentworth Ave.
3706 S. Wentworth Ave. 3810 S. Wentworth Ave. 3616 S. Wentworth Ave. 4317 S. Vincennes Ave. 4326 S. 43rd St.
4747 S. Calumet Ave. 1800 S. Calumet Ave. 136 W. 43rd St. 3505 S. LaSalle St. 3611 S. LaSalle St.
3529 S. LaSalle St. 3703 S. LaSalle St. 3625 S. LaSalle St. 3537 S. LaSalle St. 3100 S. Prairie Ave.
4600 S. Indiana Ave. 4600 S. Michigan Ave. 4500 S. Michigan Ave. 3500 S. Michigan Ave. 3900 S. King Dr.
3547 S. LaSalle St. 3517 S. LaSalle St. 3623 S. LaSalle St. 3525 S. LaSalle St. 3851 S. LaSalle St.
3721 S. LaSalle St. 3747 S. LaSalle St. 3746 S. Wentworth Ave. 3803 S. LaSalle St. 3809 S. LaSalle St.
3847 S. LaSalle St. 358 E. 47th St. 5115 S. State St. 4903 S. State St. 4321 S. State St.
5171 S. Michigan Ave. 5221 S. Michigan Ave. 444 E. 46th St. 5105 S. Michigan Ave. 2125 S. Michigan Ave.
5145 S. Michigan Ave. 441 E. 46th ST. 3548 S. Giles Ave. 3610 S. Giles Ave. 3547 S. Giles Ave.
3238 S. Giles Ave. 130 E. 37th St. 260 E. 37th St. 3728 S. Prairie Ave. 500 E. 51st St.
3550 S. Michigan Ave. 12 E. 35th St. 60 E. 35th St. 4808 S. Forrestville Ave. 5488 S. Wells St.
2431 S. Dearborn St. 4900 S. Michigan Ave. 3754 S. Indiana Ave. 105 E. 47th St. 636 E. 45th St.
4500 S. Champlain Ave. 258 W. Swann St. 300 W. Swann St. 259 W. 46th St. 105 E. 49th St.
400 E. 41st St. 3629 S. Indiana Ave. 352 W. Garfield Blvd. 5101 S. Princeton Ave. 50 E. 16th St.
4752 S. Wabash Ave. 4231 S. King Dr. 4235 S. Michigan Ave. 4527 S. Michigan Ave. 4533 S. Michigan Ave.
4712 S. Wabash Ave. 214 E. 37th St. 1759 S. State St. 5041 S. Princeton Ave. 4935 S. Prairie Ave.
4242 S. King Dr. 2900 S. State St. 4308 S. Forrestville Ave. 4359 S. State St. 5344 S. Michigan Ave.
5426 S. Michigan Ave. 5458 S. Michigan Ave. 5206 S. Michigan Ave. 4134 S. State St. 5507 S. Lafayette Ave.
4835 S. King Dr. 3459 S. Michigan Ave. 226 E. 47th St. 3304 S. Michigan Ave. 3330 S. Michigan Ave.
3200 S. Indiana Ave. 1758 S. State St. 5113 S. Wentworth Ave. 5101 S. Wentworth Ave. 150 W. 51st St.
5139 S. Wentworth Ave. 3825 S. Wells St. 3101 S. Indiana Ave. 1722 S. Wabash Ave. 102 E. 14th St.
1714 S. Wabash Ave. 4901 S. Princeton Ave. 5161 S. Wabash Ave. 4700 S. Princeton Ave. 203 E. 31st St.
3901 S. Wabash Ave. 3516 S. Michigan Ave. 53 E. Pershing Rd. 102 E. 35th St. 5500 S. Lafayette Ave.
4941 S. King Dr. 40 E. 16th St. 1452 S. State St. 4545 S. Vincennes Ave. 1463 S. State St.
2630 S. Wabash Ave. 3947 S. King Dr. 4642 S. Shields Ave. 1810 S. State St. 3424 S. Michigan Ave.
3436 S. Michigan Ave. 5508 S. Lafayette Ave. 4747 S. King Dr. 4246 S. Prairie Ave. 430 W. Garfield Blvd.
434 W. Garfield Blvd. 1405 S. Indiana Ave. 4300 S. State St. 3100 S. Indiana Ave. 4331 S. King Dr.
4614 S. Vincenes Ave. 4700 S. Michigan Ave. 3809 S. Calumet Ave. 419 E. 42nd St. 4321 S. Calumet Ave.

Commercial Development

New Bronzeville Mariano's Opens
Alderman Dowell was proud to attend the historic grand opening of the new Bronzeville 
Mariano's grocery store on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and Pershing Road. The new grocery store was a long-time coming and will offer lasting benefits to the community. 

The Bronzeville Mariano's was made possible through the cooperation of the 3rd and 4th Wards, Bob Mariano, the City of Chicago and countless others who remained dedicated to bringing fresh food, economic development and jobs to the Bronzeville neighborhood. Mariano's is a committed partner in the community, hiring from Bronzeville FIRST and allocating a specific section of the store for local Bronzeville products. This project will be a great addition and economic driver to the neighborhood.

Herc Rentals Grand Opening Celebration
On May 18th and 19th, Herc Rentals hosted a grand opening celebration for their new facility at 2424 S. Wabash Avenue. The event featured complimentary food and refreshments, equipment demonstrations, safety training and prizes.

Herc Rentals operates a ProContractor Tools showroom featuring air compressors, lighting, pumps, compaction, tools, trailers and much more. Visit them in person or go to their website at HercRentals.com for all your power tool needs.

Transamerica Financial Group Ribbon Cutting
Transamerica Financial Group has opened up their newest location at 2332 S. Michigan. Please join Alderman Dowell in welcoming this business to the 3rd Ward! 

Transamerica's investment and insurance professionals offer smart financial tools and products to help make it easier to build a future you can count on. If you are in the market for insurance, mutual funds, annuities or retirement products, check them out today.

Renaissance Bronzeville (4641 S. King Drive) Comes to King Drive
After the unforeseen closing of the esteemed Jokes and Notes comedy club in 2016, Alderman Dowell worked with established businessmen John McClendon and Shun Dyes to bring a much needed upscale entertainment venue to the 47th and King Drive corridor. Their experience and expertise in running established businesses in the South Loop (Tantrum), South Shore (Exchange Urban Hang Suite), and Indianapolis (Tantrum Indianapolis) made Alderman Dowell's decision to support this new African-American owned venture rather simple. 

Armand's Victory Tap Opens in the South Loop
1416 S. Michigan Avenue is now home to the newest restaurant concept from Armand's Pizzeria, Victory Tap. Victory Tap features Armand's famous pizzas served in a newly-renovated upscale setting. But unlike the other Armand's locations, this restaurant offers a wide variety of  local Italian favorites created by esteemed chef and Rosebud alum Joe Farina. The restaurant also has a full bar and offers delivery to the surrounding neighborhood.

McHugh Hotel Development

This 500 key Hilton-brand hotel on the South East corner of Cermak Rd. and Michigan Ave. will serve as the entrance to revitalize Motor Row Entertainment District. This privately funded development will have significant MWBE participation and hiring from the 3rd Ward and surrounding communities.


Skidoes Cafe and Grill (235 E. 51st St.) Now Open
The renovated storefront on the corner of 51st St. and Indiana Ave. features a new restaurant, Skidoes Cafe and Grill. Skidoes offers an eclectic array of Mexican, Jamaican, American and soul foods for breakfast, lunch and dinner in a comfortable and fun atmosphere. The addition of Skidoes Restaurant continues the revitalization being seen along the 51st Street commercial corridor.

Rylon's Smokehouse Comes to Cermak Rd. 
Chef Derek Rylon, of Batter & Berries, opened his newest restaurant, Rylon's Smokehouse at 67 E. Cermak Rd. in 2016.  Offering a wide variety of traditional BBQ options, as well as more unique fare like lobster mac & cheese and alligator links, this restaurant brings chef Rylon's distinctive flavor to life.

Plump Chicago
Plump Chicago is an upscale resale and floral boutique located at 411 E. Oakwood Blvd. Nestled in Chicago's historic Bronzeville community Plump Chicago is open for business.  They offer "Something New, Something Gently Used, & Something Just For You."

Plump Chicago is a consignment store for the plus size woman who wear sizes 12 and up.  In addition, they have a full service floral boutique providing fresh flowers and exquisite floral designs for all occasions.

The store is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 am-6:00 pm. Free street parking is available. Connect with Plump Chicago on their social media platforms for event news, specials offers, and photos. Follow them on Facebook @ PlumpChicago and Instagram at Plumpstyle.

Shrine License Revocation Update
On May 9, 2016 the owner of the Shrine had their license revoked as of May 17, 2016. The owner agreed to the voluntary revocation of their liquor license and Public Place of Amusement (PPA) license at the Shrine address at 2109 S. Wabash Ave. For a period of one year, the address on Wabash would be restricted/banned from having another liquor license or PPA. Last, the owner of the Shrine is permanently banned from applying for a liquor license or PPA in the City of Chicago. 

Problem Business: The Game (4310-14 S. Prairie Avenue)
As of April 11, 2016 The Game, located at 4310-14 S. Prairie Avenue has closed and voluntarily surrendered all licenses. The location will continue to be monitored periodically. If you have any questions about the closure please call BACP at  312-744-6060

Housing Developments
 
Alderman Dowell Celebrates Historic Grand Opening of the Rosenwald Courts Apartments
Fulfilling a promise she made when first elected, Alderman Pat Dowell hosted the historic grand opening of the new Rosenwald Courts Apartments located on 47th Street between Michigan Ave. and Wabash Ave. Vacant since 2000, the Rosenwald was home to such African-American luminaries as the poet Gwendolyn Brooks, boxer Joe Lewis, music producer Quincy Jones and singer Nat "King" Cole. 

The building was originally developed in 1929 by Julius Rosenwald, President of Sears Roebuck & Company, as housing for African-American residents during the time of strict segregation. The renovated Rosenwald Courts Apartments now boasts 239 updated one- and two- bedroom units for seniors and families. Additionally, the building contains thousands of square feet of retail space on the first floor, with prospective tenants including: Sip and Savor, Michelle's Old Fashioned Ice Cream and a small grocery store.

Thank you to everyone who made this wonderful project possible. Thank you to Mayor Rahm Emanuel and the entire team at the Department of Planning and Development for their hard work, Eugene Jones CEO of the CHA, David Roos and Jim Bergman - the developers of this great building - and their development teams at Iceberg Development, Evercore Cos, RCAP LP, the Lightengale Group and Roos Enterprises Inc., community activist Bobbie Johnson and the countless others who made this dream a reality.

Harold Ickes Development Proposal 
Harold Ickes Homes at Cermak Rd. and State St. was demolished in 2010 and now consists of 11 acres of vacant CHA property. 

The developers of the area will be The Community Builders and McCaffery Interests. Gensler is the master planner. Antunovich Associates, Brook Architecture, Nia Architects, and Worn Jerabek Wiltse are the architects. W.E. O'Neil Construction Company and Powers and Sons Construction Company are the general contractors.

The revitalized site of 877 housing units will be built in three phases and include rental and for-sale housing. Each phase will include rental housing of approximately 50% market, 30% public housing and 20% workforce distributed throughout the site. Phase 1 includes 94 public housing units, 53 workforce units, 150 market rate units and 22 home ownership opportunities. 60,000 sq. ft. of ground floor retail is also included. Approximately 800 parking spaces will be onsite.

After the resident meetings, which are designed to get resident feedback and input, Alderman Dowell's office will convene another set of broader community meetings on the proposed master plan. The design phase will be complete by early next year with construction planned to begin in the 3rd quarter of 2017. The website, w ww.ickesfuture.com , goes live January 2017.

South Loop Developments
Throughout 2016 the South Loop saw the approval of numerous development projects including:
  • 113 E. Roosevelt - Designed by famed architect Rafael Vinoly this 810 foot residential tower will add 802 rental units, state of the art amenities to the southern border of Grant Park. The developer Crescent Heights contributed $300k to park Improvements (Webster, Women's, Armstrong) as well as $100k to the historic preservation of 2nd Presbyterian and Quinn AME Chapel. 
  • 1326 S. Michigan - Mixed-use development containing 500 apartment units and 10,000 sq. feet of commercial retail space.
  • 1411 South Michigan - Mixed use residential development with 199 units and 41,000 sq. feet of medical retail space for Rush Hospital.
  • 1408 S. Wabash - Designed by Lucien Lagrange this 296 unit residential development will add 4,500 sq. feet of ground floor retail.
  • 18th and Prairie - 55 4-story family sized town homes for sale in the historic Prairie District community.
All of these privately funded developments will have significant MWBE participation and hiring from the 3rd Ward and surrounding communities.

12-Unit Townhouse Development Proposed for 1927 S. Prairie Ave.
A 4-story, 12-unit townhouse development has been proposed for 1927-35 S. Prairie Avenue. This development will be constructed consistent with the aesthetic and character of the historic Prairie District. They will feature distinctive facade treatments that match the surrounding homes, a clear distinction between the 4 buildings even though they share party walls and interior courtyard and driveways that are also consistent with the area. Maintaining the continuity of the neighborhood was critical to Alderman Dowell's review of the proposal and the addition of townhouses expands the diversity of housing options for the South Loop neighborhood.

401 E. Bowen Gets a Face Lift!
Residents of the Paul G. Stewart Apartment building at 401 E. Bowen will see some exciting changes to their building in the upcoming year. 401 E. Bowen was recently granted a permit to renovate the 20-story, 180-unit senior living facility to help beautify the property and make it even more livable for its residents. 

Located in the heart of historic Bronzeville, the Paul G. Stewart Center has been offering quality housing options to local residents since 1975. For more information about living at Paul G. Stewart call  773-924-2100 .

Park Developments
 
Ald. Dowell Opens Hadiya Pendleton Park
In early-October, Alderman Dowell and the families of Hadiya Pendleton and Vonzell Banks, as well as dozens of residents from the community came together to open the new Hadiya Pendleton Park at 4345 S. Calumet Avenue. 

The newly expanded park features a musical themed walkway containing music bars and musical notes, a state-of-the-art playground, a performance stage, a water feature and fitness stations  for residents and their families to enjoy.

Hadiya Pendleton Park opens two years after King College Prep student Hadiya Pendleton was tragically lost to stray gunfire. This expanded park gives local children and families a fantastic place to play while also honoring the memories of Hadiya Pendleton and Vonzell Banks - two young students killed by senseless violence. A Park Advisory Council is now in formation.

Armstrong Park Ribbon Cutting
Alderman Dowell joined members of the Lillian Harding Armstrong Park Advisory Council (PAC) and community residents for the ceremonial ribbon-cutting at the park's renovated track at 4433 S. St. Lawrence Avenue.

The track was paid for by the Chicago Park District and Crescent Heights, the development company building the DePaul Center in the South Loop. The Park Advisory Council, a voluntary group of individuals who meet on a regular basis to support the effective functioning of their local park, was formed in June of 2014 and is being led by President Bruce Sayre. Bruce leads a strong and active PAC consisting of: Ruby Haughton- Pitts, Prentiss Byrd, Marjorie Edwards, Terry Ervin, Kimi Edwards, Debra Smith and Shelley Davis among others. 

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was the first of two events held at Armstrong Park on October 22nd. The PAC and community residents walked a lap around the track to raise awareness of domestic violence as October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. In addition to walking around the track, the PAC also collected hygiene products to be donated to a women's shelter for victims of domestic violence. For more information on Chicago Park District events visit  www.ChicagoParkDistrict.com or contact the PAC at  773-915-3645.

Mary Richardson Jones Ribbon Cutting
On Saturday, September 10th, Alderman Pat Dowell joined Principal Tara Shelton of South Loop Elementary, the Dearborn Park II Landscape Association and members of the Mary Richardson Jones Park Advisory Council (PAC) for the ceremonial ribbon cutting of the park's newly-minted field at 1240 S. Plymouth Ct.

Improvements to the field began in the spring of 2016. The Park Advisory Council is being led by PAC Co-Presidents Elaine Szujewski and Sandy Davidson. With the help of the Chicago Park District, the Armstrong PAC and Alderman Dowell, Mary Richardson Jones Park is making strides to become a fun and nature-filled playspace.

In the summer of 2017, the Chicago Park District will begin the expansion of the Williams Park Fieldhouse. Williams Park totals 6.67 acres and offers a small fieldhouse, baseball fields, playground equipment, a spray pool, tennis and basketball courts, and an interactive water spray feature which provides children relief from Chicago's hot summers.
 
This $6 million expansion project, funded by the Chicago Housing Authority, will develop a new-state-of-the-art fieldhouse. Plans to improve the existing fieldhouse began in 2015 with input from community stakeholders, Chicago Housing Authority, Chicago Park District and Alderman Dowell. Based on community needs, the new fieldhouse designs, done by STL Architects, will add two social rooms to support community meetings and programming, new office space fir Park District staff, and a 4,000 sq. ft. multi-purpose gymnasium for indoor sports. For more information on the Williams Park Expansion Project, please contact my office at 773-373-9273.

Ellis Park Grand Opening
The Arts and Recreation Center at Ellis Park (3520 S. Cottage Grove Ave.) officially opened on Saturday, July 9th. This project was made possible through a partnership between the 3rd and 4th Wards, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, the Chicago Park District and the Community Builders. The grand opening ceremony was widely attended by both community leaders and neighborhood residents who were all welcome to tour the new facility and learn about programming options in Ellis Park.

The Arts and Recreation Center provides ample space for local residents, art rooms, a fitness center, a basketball court and a spacious 32,000 sq. ft. pool. Classes are ongoing. If you are interested in learning more about the Ellis Park Arts and Recreation Center or to sign up for classes please click  here

21st and Prairie Pocket Park Construction Continues
As part of the McCormick Place Event Center and Hotel Development, the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA) is constructing a pocket park at 21st St. and Prairie Avenue. The park will contain a playground with a water feature for children, a plaza for eating and a large dog friendly area. The park will be maintained by MPEA but open to the public. Construction on the pocket park will be complete in Summer 2017. 

Taylor Park Gets New Workout Equipment and Boxing Ring
Taylor Park (39 W. 47th St.), has received new workout equipment for its field house. This includes state of the art treadmills, ellipticals, free weights and machines. In addition, the park received a new boxing ring. Located in the heart of the Bronzeville community, Taylor Park features meeting rooms, a combination gymnasium/assembly hall, boxing center, baseball fields, athletic fields and a swimming pool. To find out more about Taylor Park and how to become a Park District member, please call  312-747-6728. 

Other 3rd Ward Park Improvements  
Aspen, Birch, Metcalfe and Poplar Parks in the 3rd Ward received enhancements and new equipment  through the "Chicago Plays!" Playground Program. Launched by Mayor Emanuel and the Chicago Park District in March 2013, the new "Chicago Plays!" Playground Program is a five-year playground renovation project. The program targets the replacement of equipment at 325 aging playgrounds throughout the city.  For more information on the improvements made at the parks, please contact the 3rd Ward Public Service Office.

Youth Developments
 
XS Tennis Construction Underway
The 3rd Ward celebrated the start of construction of XS Tennis Village, a $16.9 million, 150,918 square foot world class tennis facility in Washington Park at 53rd and State Street. The state-of-the-art facility will house 12 indoor courts, 15 outdoor courts, a fitness center, running track, training space and classrooms. Chicago's XS Tennis, led by Chicagoan Kamau Murray is the largest, most successful minority-owned tennis organization in the nation, serving more than 2,000 Chicago Public School (CPS) students through its free in-school Tennis XSpress program and more than 2,300 Chicago youth and residents annually. Alderman Dowell is proud to have been part of an awesome collaboration to bring this new asset to the 3rd Ward.

Education

Alderman Dowell Surpluses Local TIFs to Help Schools
In February 2016 Alderman Dowell decided to surplus two TIFs within the 3rd Ward. The TIF surplus provided almost $2.5 million to 3rd Ward schools to help CPS close the 2015-16 school year's budget gap. 

In this TIF action, Alderman Dowell surplused $1 million from the 35th/State TIF and $2.6 million from the 47th/Halsted TIF. Per standard surplus procedures, CPS received 50% of all surplused funds, the City of Chicago receives 18% and the remaining funds were divided among the other taxing bodies.  The City of Chicago has agreed to give their portion of the funding to CPS, resulting in a $1.8 million contribution to Chicago Public Schools within the 3rd Ward. Alderman Dowell worked directly with CPS and neighborhood schools to determine how the funds were to be allocated.

South Loop Elementary School to Get New Building
Due to a sharp increase in the population of school-aged children in the South Loop neighborhood, South Loop Elementary School is severely overcrowded, functioning at approximately 132% over capacity. This means that art rooms, science labs and computer classrooms are being used as regular classrooms instead of for their intended use.

Fulfilling a promise she made when first becoming the Alderman for the South Loop, Alderman Dowell is proud to announce the opening of a new elementary school for the South Loop to be constructed on the corner of 16th St. and Dearborn Ave. This larger, state-of-the-art facility will meet the growing educational needs of the neighborhood and relieve the current overcrowding situation at South Loop Elementary School.

As is the case with all major projects in the 3rd Ward, Alderman Dowell will be undergoing an intensive community process to make sure residents have input on the design and function of the new school. While this project is just beginning, please be on the lookout for upcoming announcements regarding how you can participate in this collaborative process.

Walter H. Dyett High School for the Arts Opened Sept. 2016
Opened in September 2016, Walter H. Dyett High School for the Arts stands proudly in beautiful Washington Park on the south side of Chicago. The school was named after Walter H. Dyett, an American violinist and music educator in Chicago Public Schools. In honor of his legacy the redesigned school boasts an innovative and rigorous arts education. 

Walter H. Dyett High School for the Arts offers the only open enrollment school for the arts on the city's south side. The school has been designed to take the best practices from magnet arts models and allow for neighborhood open enrollment. Arts programs offered include: dance, digital media, studio drawing, multimedia, chorus, band, theater and computer science. The school also offers a wide variety of enrichment activities and courses.

Students within the attendance boundary for Dyett are able to enroll in the new school. Students from outside the neighborhood boundary must complete an application to be considered for eligibility. To apply go to  apply.cps.edu, submit official transcripts and daily attendance report and schedule a placement audition.  For more information please call  773-535-8080 or visit  www.newdyett.org.

New School-Based Health Center to Open at Drake Elementary
Delivering health care services to approximately 400 students on-site, 20 surrounding neighborhood schools and area families, the Drake Health & Wellness center will be a welcome addition to the community. The health center will feature a total of four exam rooms, modern equipment, an ADA compliant bathroom and attached lab, build out of an external entrance for community residents, group meeting room, and an administrative office. In addition to bringing full-time school day health services to Drake and the surrounding community, the investment will provide youth with comprehensive primary care with a new focus on behavioral health services.

Illinois Tech Groundbreaking
On  August 25th  the Illinois Institute of Technology officially broke ground on its first new academic facility in 40 years with the Ed Kaplan Family Institute for Innovation and Tech 
Entrepreneurship . The Kaplan Institute will serve as a one-of-a-kind hub for innovation at Illinois Tech, preparing students for the development of meaningful technology innovations that solve complex problems. 

The groundbreaking marks the beginning of the construction phase for the future 70,000 sq. ft. innovation center which will be located just north of Hermann Hall. Construction is expected to ramp up by March 2017 with completion anticipated for 2018. The innovation center will enhance Illinois Tech's existing hands-on active learning program.

3rd Ward Elementary Schools Show Significant Growth
Over the prior academic year, schools across the 3rd Ward showed significant growth in reading, math and attendance. This reflects a larger citywide trend for CPS schools, which are showing  noticeable  academic gains. 

Reports from CPS indicate that two schools in the ward have raised their academic rating, Woodson and Hendricks. Congratulations to those schools and their faculty, students and parents. Additionally, 5 schools raised their reading growth, 5 schools increased their math growth and 5 schools exceeded the district's average attendance rate. 

This is a great start for our neighborhood schools, but there is definitely more work to be done. In order to provide badly needed funding to our schools, Alderman Dowell surplused over $2 million in Tax Increment Financing money which went directly to 3rd Ward schools. Working in consultation with each school's principal, TIF funds were spent on important programs such as: computers, after-school programming, social and emotional supports, professional development, bullying prevention and more. 

This additional funding, as well as the positive growth in academic performance seen over the last school year will be a springboard for our schools and students for the coming year! Thank you to all of the people who work so hard every day to make our schools a great place to learn, and especially to the Bronzeville Community Action Council who play an integral role in making positive change for neighborhood schools.

Magnetar Youth Investment Academy Announces Gift to Three 3rd Ward Schools
The University of Chicago in partnership with the Magnetar Captial Foundation has announced a $5 million gift to support financial literacy education for k-12 students in Chicago. This four and a half year partnership will service 50 Chicago-area high schools, including Wendell Phillips Academy, Bronzeville Scholastic Institute and Perspectives Joslin in the 3rd Ward. Over the past five years, the Megnetar Youth Investment Academy has successfully though financial and consumer literacy to students before they graduate from high school helping them make smart financial choices and avoid debt. 
 
Bronzeville CAC Honors Valedictorians 
On Monday, June 13th the Bronzeville Community Action Council - a group of parents, teachers, elected officials and community leaders dedicated to improving education for all Bronzeville students - came together to award outstanding Bronzeville students for their academic achievements.

Gift bags were given to the valedictorians, salutatorians, and most improved students from every school in the Bronzeville community. In addition, principals were recognized for their outstanding contributions and rewarded with a free dinner event at a local Bronzeville restaurant.

Thank you to everyone who donated to the gift bags and who worked so hard to make this event a truly special one. For a full recap of the event, please visit this website:  http://us.emob.io/NTqcKc .

Landmarks
 
Three 3rd Ward Buildings Win 2016 Preservation Excellence Award
Unity Hall (3140 S. Indiana Ave.), the Chicago Defender Building (3435 S. Indiana Ave.) and 421 E. 50th St. have been selected to receive a 2016 "Chicago Landmark Award for Preservation Excellence." These awards, selected by the Commission on Chicago Landmarks, honor outstanding projects that involve notable improvements to individual Chicago Landmarks or to buildings within Chicago Landmark Districts. Unity Hall is receiving the award for their adaptive reuse of the historic building, the Chicago Defender Building won the rehabilitation award, and 421 E. 50th Street is being awarded in the new construction category.

George Washington Statue on 51st and 
King Refurbished
Work on the statue of George Washington off of the corner of 51st St. and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Drive was performed last summer.  As was previously reported, rehabilitation included building a new foundation approximately 25 feet due south of the current location in order to help prevent possible vehicular damage, and the bronze horse and rider was laser cleaned and analyzed to determine if further action is necessary.

Legislation
 
Alderman Dowell Appointed to Chair Human Relations Committee
In 2016 Alderman Dowell was appointed as Chairman of the Committee on Human Relations for the Chicago City Council. This Committee has jurisdiction over all matters relating to human rights and the Commission on Human Relations, and all matters generally affecting veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States of America. As Chairman, Alderman Dowell leads the committee's actions and presides over its meetings.

Alderman Dowell Chief Sponsor of Municipal Depository Ordinance
In order to provide better oversight of public funds, Alderman Dowell is a chief sponsor of an ordinance to make necessary changes to the laws governing municipal depositories. Municipal depositories are financial institutions that hold money for the City of Chicago government. 

The ordinance will ensure that any financial institution functioning as a municipal depository is complying with their Community Reinvestment Act requirements, which ensure that lending institutions make money available to undeserved communities. 

C ity of Chicago Approves Property Tax Rebate Program
With Alderman Dowell's support, the City of Chicago authorized a property tax rebate program for eligible homeowners. To qualify, applicants must have had a household adjusted gross income of less than $75,000. Rebates will be between $25 and $200, which is determined based on income and the size of a homeowner's property tax increase. The average rebate is $150. Seniors are eligible for a larger tax rebate of up to $300.  The rebate is funded using $20 million of transfer tax money from the sale of the Chicago Skyway. 

City Council Amends Recycling Ordinance to Reflect Current Industry Standards
City Council amended the Chicago Recycling Ordinance to reflect the most current standards within the recycling industry. The ordinance now provides greater clarity to property owners regarding their recycling requirements while also giving city officials stronger enforcement capabilities.

Under the amended ordinance, property owners of multi-unit residential, office and commercial establishments will now be mandated to provide source-separated, single stream recycling; the most commonly used collection method in the industry. Property owners will also be responsible for implementing an ongoing educational program that includes posting signage, providing adequate carts and sending written notice to tenants about the changes.  The new Chicago Recycling ordinance takes effect on January 1, 2017.

Paid Sick Leave Will Be Required in City of Chicago
With Alderman Dowell's support, starting July 1, 2017, it will be required for businesses in the City of Chicago to offer paid sick leave to employees (some exclusion apply). To be eligible, employees must work 80 hours for an employer during a 120 day period and an employee must work 180 days for the employer to be eligible for paid sick time. For every 40 hours worked, an employee receives 1 hour of paid sick leave, with a cap of 40 hours of paid sick leave every 12 months. Employees can only carry over a maximum of 20 hours of accrued paid sick leave to the next 12 month period. When an employee is absent for more than three consecutive work days, the employer may require certification, like a note from a licensed health care provider.

City Passes Ordinance to Regulate Home Sharing
On June 22nd the Chicago City Council passed new regulations for the home sharing industry to ensure consumers and residents are protected while generating new revenue to address homelessness in Chicago. Alderman Dowell was part of a City Council working group that helped craft the new home sharing ordinance.  Specifically, the ordinance requires home sharing companies (like Airbnb) to be licensed and report on rental data to the city. Companies are also required to submit and comply with a quality of life plan to address problem rental units. Units themselves will be required to register as a shared housing unit or as a vacation rental. Additionally, hosts with multiple rental units are required to obtain a shared housing unit operator's license which subjects the units to strengthened regulatory standards. 

A four percent surcharge on the booking of shared-housing units is expected to generate approximately $2 million. Up to eight percent of the revenue raised from the surcharge will be used for enforcement and administration. Half of the remaining funds will be earmarked to fund permanent housing for homeless families, with the other half dedicated to providing supportive services and housing to the homeless. 

City Council Approves Measures to Protect Residents in Accessing Bathroom Facilities
A new measure passed by the Chicago City Council prohibits public accommodations like hotels, restaurants or grocery stores from requiring patrons to show a government issued ID upon request to access facilities like restrooms for the purpose of denying service based on biological category, gender identity or both.

As Chairman of the Human Relations Committee, Alderman Dowell held the initial public hearing on the proposed ordinance, taking testimony from the head of the Chicago Commission on Human Relations, experts and interested members of the public. The resulting ordinance was passed by the full City Council during the June meeting.

Truck Stickers No Longer Required for Most Trucks
In an effort to update an outdated section of the Municipal Code which required non-commercial pick-up truck owners to obtain a special vehicle sticker to park on business and residential streets, the Chicago City Council passed an ordinance effectively eliminating the need for a special sticker.  The ordinance went into effect on May 18, 2016.
 
SO2015-8494 substantively eliminates the need for a residential truck parking permit and allows non-commercial pick-up trucks weighing less than 8,000 pounds to park in the City of Chicago - provided certain conditions are met:
  1. If the non-commercial pick-up truck is owned by a City Resident and has a valid City Sticker, the owner may park the vehicle on a Residential or Business street.
  2. If the non-commercial pick-up truck is owned by a Non-Chicago resident, (e.g. a visitor from the suburbs) and does not have a valid Chicago City Wheel Tax License, the owner may only park the vehicle on a Business street.
For more information about City of Chicago truck parking regulations, please go to the City Clerk's website at  www.chicityclerk.com.

Ald. Dowell Cosponsors Legislation to Encourage Neighborhood Development
A new initiative supported by Alderman Dowell will reform the Chicago Zoning Code to allow developers to obtain additional square-footage for construction projects in the downtown area in exchange for investments to support neighborhoods in need of jobs and economic growth.
 
Previously, downtown construction projects were able to increase their size and height in exchange for on-site investments that provided limited public benefit. Under the new system, developers will instead make voluntary financial contributions to a funding system that is designed to support commercial development projects and create jobs in neighborhoods that need investment and growth. 
 
Based on recent downtown construction trends the initiative could produce an estimated tens of millions of dollars in neighborhood improvements over the next several years.
 
Alderman Dowell Cosponsors Resolution Calling for Hearings on Discrimination Against Housing Choice Voucher Holders
In order to address discrimination in housing options for residents with Housing Choice Vouchers (formerly called Section 8 vouchers), Alderman Dowell and Alderman Joe Moore (49th Ward) are calling for a hearing in City Council on this issue. According to testing conducted by the Chicago Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law, income discrimination remains a regular occurrence for all voucher holders, especially for African Americans and people with disabilities. These individuals are regularly denied access to quality affordable housing in designated "Areas of Opportunity," forcing them into high-poverty, high-crime neighborhoods. Alderman Dowell strongly believes that all individuals regardless of income or race should have access to high-quality housing in every neighborhood across the city. 

New Accessibility Regulations go into effect January 1, 2017
The Chicago Human Rights Ordinance requires that Chicago businesses ensure that their facilities, products and services are available to individuals with disabilities.  On January 1, 2017, new disability rights regulations passed by the Chicago Commission on Human Relations go into effect.  These regulations specify what Chicago businesses must do in order to make their goods and services accessible to people with disabilities.  For more information on these new regulations, click here.

Other Third Ward Improvements
 
Burke School Builds New Garden 
With the guidance of Mission Continues, a volunteer organization made up primarily of U.S. military veterans, Burke Elementary School constructed a school garden on the CPS-owned vacant lot on the corner of 54th St. and Calumet Ave. This garden will be a great addition to the Burke School community, allowing students to have an opportunity for a hands-on approach to learning about important subjects like science, the environment and sustainability. 

The project was led by John Worthy and the Mission Continues volunteers were joined by students and faculty of Burke School in the construction of the garden. Classrooms will be assigned a bed for planting and lesson plans will be created around the new garden. Alderman Dowell was happy to assist in the construction of the garden by supplying wood chips to serve as the bed for the garden. Thank you Principal Jessica Biggs of Burke School, John Worthy and the rest of the Mission Continues team and to all of the students, parents, faculty and residents that came out to help support this project.

AMC Center Chicago Set for Old McCorkle Elementary
The new AMC Center will be a community service space led by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for the benefit of all people in Bronzeville, regardless of faith, color or creed. The community center is planned for the former McCorkle Elementary school building at 44th and State Streets and will deliver resources and services to foster peace though service to the community. The AMC Center will be built on three main principals: social service, community dialogue and neighborhood revitalization.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is a dynamic, reformist and fast-growing international revival movement within Islam founded in 1889. The AMC community has been a longstanding member of the Bronzeville neighborhood ever since they founded their first US mosque on 44th St. and Wabash Avenue.

42nd Street Named in Honor of Dr. Sokoni T. Karanja
Alderman Dowell was proud to preside over the honorary street naming ceremony for the founder and former President of Centers for New Horizons, Dr. Sokoni T. Karanja. 42nd Street between Prairie Avenue and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive is now adorned with signs marking it as the honorary Dr. Sokoni T. Karanja Way.

Dr. Karanja is an institution in Bronzeville and remains a valued neighborhood resident. While leading Centers for New Horizons, he developed wraparound services for local families including: job training, placement assistance, mental health programming, early-education concepts and more.  In addition to his work with Centers for New Horizons, he sits on multiple boards and task forces, was named a MacArthur Fellowship  recipient , and continues to be very active in the Bronzeville community. Congratulations to Dr. Karanja for his tireless work and dedication to the residents of Bronzeville and to the entire City of Chicago. 
Third Ward Update                                     

Alderman Dowell Celebrates "Christmas in the Wards" with Local Families
Organized by Alderman Michelle Harris (8th), Alderman Carrie Austin (34th), Larry Huggins of Riteway Huggins Construction and Everett Rand of Midway Wholesalers, and sponsored by countless national and neighborhood organizations, "Christmas in the Wards" is an invite-only event created to ensure needy families have a Merry Christmas season. The participating families are invited to a day-long program featuring food, raffles and Christmas presents for the children. Alderman Dowell was happy to host a select few needy families at the event. Thank you to Aldermen Harris and Austin, Larry and Everett, as well as all of the sponsors for making this event possible.

Alderman Dowell Attends Christmas at Dearborn Homes
The Dearborn Homes community welcomed Alderman Dowell for a very Merry Christmas celebration. The event which offered food, games and presents to Dearborn Homes residents was a huge success! Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make Christmas special for these families.

47th St. Water Project Update
Alderman Dowell and the Department of Water Management (DWM) are proud to announced a water main replacement project on 47th Street from Prairie Ave. to Lake Park Ave. and on Drexel Blvd. from 46th St. to 47th St. 

Visit the  buildinganewchicago.org website and enter project number 1601126 to receive updates on the project. 

Construction crews have begun preparing the site for water main installation, including the location and marking of other utility services. You will notice construction equipment and materials placed in your area. The project will consist of several phases over the coming weeks.
Once the new water main has been installed, the new pipe will be pressurized, disinfected with chlorine and tested. DWM will then begin the process of switching services from the old main to the new main. During that transfer period you will be without water for a few hours. Affected buildings will receive a handout notifying them when their water service will be temporarily interrupted prior to the service transfer.

Once the services have been transferred, the street will be temporarily restored with concrete until complete restoration of the street with asphalt can be done. ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps will be repaired or installed where needed, along with repair of damaged parkway and sidewalk. The final restoration of the street will include milling the surface, placing new asphalt, and painting the street markings.

The restoration schedule is subject to change and may be impacted by adverse weather conditions. Asphalt is not available during winter months, which may delay the final restoration of the street.

If you have any questions about this project, please contact the Department of Water Management at 312-744-4420 or the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Chicago Smart Lighting Project
The City of Chicago is conducting a public demonstration of next-generation streetlights in seven neighborhoods as part of the Chicago Smart Lighting Project, which will upgrade streetlights across the city starting next year. Residents are being asked to visit a demonstration site and provide feedback on the new lighting, which represents the latest advances in lighting technology.
 
This ambitious city-wide lighting modernization initiative will take advantage of advances in lighting technologies to deliver higher quality, more reliable, outdoor lighting by:

Replacing approximately 270,000 outdated high pressure sodium (HPS) lamps with modern, energy- efficient LED lights.
*    Installing a wireless lighting management system that provides real time outage updates, greatly reducing outage response times.
*    Making targeted repairs to existing poles and wires, with the goal of extending useful life and reducing failure rates.
 
New LED light fixtures have been installed in seven Chicago neighborhoods; on one arterial street, one residential block, and one alley in each area. The locations can  be found here .
 
The City is asking residents to provide general feedback about light quality, lighting levels and visibility, by using  this online comment form  or by mail at:

CDOT Streetlight Demo
30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 1100
Chicago, IL 60602
 
For more information about the Chicago Smart Lighting Project, go to  chicagoinfrastructure.org/initiatives/smartlighting/.


Glessner House 50th Anniversary 
At 1800 S. Prairie Avenue sits the historic Glessner House Museum,  a National Historic Landmark designed by noted American architect Henry Hobson Richardson and completed in 1887. It remains an internationally-known architectural treasure in Chicago. 

The 50th Anniversary Gala, held at the Chicago Club, honored the historic legacy of Frances Glessner - a true Chicago socialite -  well known for hosting fabulous costume balls over 100 years ago. At the event, Alderman Dowell was honored for her commitment to historic preservation

Take Flight: Staying the Course
On  Thursday, January 5th  Employee and Employer Services is hosting lunch for CHA college students to introduce them to business professionals for summer jobs and internship opportunities.  Employee and Employer Services is here to help build your network, plan your summer and provide you with tools (like FREE professional headshots!) to help launch your career.  This event is FREE but only a limited number of tickets are available,  RSVP TODAY at  http://bit.ly/Jan5CHA .

Where: CNA Building (60 E. Van Buren)
When: Thursday, January 5th from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

3rd Annual Bronzeville Youth 360 Summit
Youth-led workshops, live performances, resources and raffles will all be a part of this important summit. Come, let your voice be heard! Breakfast and lunch is included. Register now at 2017Youth360Summit.eventbrite.com.

Where: Wendell Phillips High School (244 E. Pershing Rd.)
When: Friday, January 6th from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm

St. Paul CME Church Coat Drive
Its cold outside, help someone in need! St. Paul CME Church will be accepting new and gently used coats from now until Friday, January 6th to distribute at their coat and clothing giveaway. For more information call 773-536-1723.

Where: St. Paul CME Church (4644 S. Dearborn St.)
When: Saturday, January 7th from noon until 3:00 pm

Become a Chicago Police Officer
If not you, who? WVON is partnering with the Chicago Police Department to host a recruitment event at the station. Meet WVON personalities, apply onsite and talk with local Chicago Police Officers. To find our more or apply, visit www.chicagopolice.org.

Where: WVON Legacy Room (1000 E. 87th St.)
When: Saturday, January 7th from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm
 
Powers of Attorney and Advance Directives: When, What and Why?
The Circuit Court of Cook County's Elder Justice Center, as part of its free senior enrichment series, is hosting an event entitled "Powers of Attorney and Advance Directives: When, What and Why?" Topics to be covered include: Power of attorney for healthcare and property, Illinois Living Will Declarations, Do Not Resuscitate Orders/POLST, and the Healthcare Surrogate Act. To register for the event please call 312-603-9233.

Where: Richard J. Daley Center (50 W. Washington St.)
When: Tuesday, January 10th from noon to 1:30 pm

Property Tax Assessment Appeal Forum
Cook County Board of Review Commissioner Larry Rogers, Jr., in partnership with Alderman Pat Dowell, is hosting a property tax assessment appeal forum for residents living in the South Chicago Township who are interested in appealing their property taxes. For more information please call 312-603-0495 or email Laurie.Collier@cookcountyil.gov. 

Where: Glessner House Museum (1800 S. Prairie Ave.)
When: Wednesday, January 11th at 7:00 pm

St. Elizabeth Church Mobile Food Pantry
This free service offers fresh fruits, vegetables and non-perishable groceries to needy families. 

Where: St. Elizabeth Church/SVDP Food Pantry (41st and Wabash)
When: Thursday, January 12th from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Reverse Mortgages and Predatory Lending: Part 1
The Circuit Court of Cook County's Elder Justice Center, as part of its free senior enrichment series, is hosting an event entitled "Reverse Mortgages and Predatory Lending: Part 1" Topics to be covered include: Homeowner rights in foreclosure cases, the court process and procedures for foreclosures, and the mortgage foreclosure case management program. To register for the event please call 312-603-9233.

Where: Richard J. Daley Center (50 W. Washington St.)
When: Thursday, January 26th from noon to 1:30 pm
Important Announcements                             

Soldier Field Events 
Parking restrictions are in place for the South Loop during all Chicago Bears football games as well as other events hosted at Soldier Field.  Vehicles parked in the South Loop without a valid Soldier Field Parking Pass or Soldier Field Guest Pass are subject to ticketing or towing.
 
For a complete list of Soldier Field events, please visit   www.SoldierField.net/events. The 3rd Ward is providing the list below as a courtesy to residents and visitors and does not assume liability for the accuracy of the monthly list of Soldier Field events.  All Soldier Field events are subject to change, including cancellation or the scheduling of additional events.  It is your responsibility to adhere to the parking restrictions in place.  

Polar Dash - Saturday, January 7th from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm
F3 Half Marathon - Saturday, January 28th from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm

Shared Cost Sidewalk Program
The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) administers the Shared Cost Sidewalk Program, which  is an extremely popular program in which homeowners share the cost of sidewalk repairs with the City.   Thousands of Chicagoans have been a part of this program, taking advantage of the program's low cost and ease of participation.  

The cost of sidewalk replacement for the homeowner through the program is well below what a private contractor would charge.  Senior citizens and those with disabilities may qualify for a further discounted rate.

Participation will proceed on a first-come, first-served basis.  Note that the program typically reaches capacity quickly, so you are encouraged to apply early.  Additionally, if you applied for the program in previous years, you must apply again in 2017. Residents can call 311 or visit www.cityofchicago.org/311 to apply. 

The application for the 2016 program is Tuesday, January 10, 2017. 
 
For more information or to get started online, click here

Christmas Tree Recycling
City of Chicago Christmas Tree Recycling program will run  Saturday, January 3rd through Saturday, January 21st . Residents can drop off their Christmas tree at any of the participating 24 park districts locations found in the link below to be recycled. Free mulch will be available at 6 locations starting  Tuesday, January 3rd. Q uantities are limited. Please remove any ornaments or lights prior to dropping them off. 

Click here for information about participating parks and where you can pick up the free mulch. 

City of Chicago Warming Centers
The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) operates six Warming Centers during work weekdays when temperatures dip below 32 degrees. Additional facilities are opened as needed including Senior Centers, libraries, and Park District buildings. The Warming Centers that DFSS operates are not open on weekday holidays unless specifically indicated. This is why it is so important to contact 3-1-1 for Warming Center information, especially during off hours or on holidays.

Warming Centers in or near the 3rd Ward include:
  • King Center (4314 S. Cottage Grove)
  • Oak Street Health (4318 S. State)
  • South Chicago (8650 S. Commercial)
Chicago Checkout Bag Tax Starts Feb. 1, 2017
To encourage customers to bring their own reusable bags, the City of Chicago is implementing a $.07 tax on each paper and plastic bag provided by stores to carry out purchased items. Exemptions to the tax include: restaurant take-out bags, bags containing garbage bags, prescription drug/newspaper/garment bags, and bags used to contain small loose bulk items.  In order to allow for seamless start, implementation of the City of Chicago Checkout Bag Tax was delayed and now goes into effect on Wednesday, February 1, 2017. 
January CAPS                                               

Attending and participating in the Chicago Police's Community Policing Program (CAPS) is one of the best ways to address crime and quality of life issues in your neighborhood. By attending CAPS meetings, you can share important information with the police that will assist them in making arrests and preventing crime as well as receive valuable information about resources that promote homeowner and community safety. Visit  www.chicagopolice.org to find out what district you live in and click on each district title to learn more about what is happening in your neighborhood.


131/132
January 17th @ 6:30 pm
Hilliard Apts.
(30 W. Cermak)
 
133
January 18th @ 6:30 pm 
Dearborn Homes
(2930 S. Dearborn) 
211
No CAPS in January
 
212/214
No CAPS in January
213/215/224
No CAPS in January
 
 
221/223
No CAPS in January
225/231
No CAPS in January
711/712
No CAPS in January
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
915
January 10th @ 6:30 pm
9th Dist. Station
(3120 S. Halsted) 
924/931/933
January 3th @ 6:00 pm
New Life
(4707 S. Marshfield)
925
January 18th @ 6:00 pm
St. Gabriel's Church
(4500 S. Wallace)
 
934/935
January 17th @ 6:00 pm 
Westhaven Homes
(850 W. Garfield)